1978 Dodge Aspen vs. 2009 Dodge Dakota
To start off, 2009 Dodge Dakota is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Dodge Aspen. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Dodge Aspen would be higher. At 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Dakota (211 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1978 Dodge Aspen. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1978 Dodge Aspen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Dakota weights approximately 226 kg more than 1978 Dodge Aspen. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Dodge Dakota is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Dodge Aspen. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Dakota will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Dodge Dakota (319 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Dodge Aspen. (231 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Dodge Aspen.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Dodge Aspen | 2009 Dodge Dakota | |
| Make | Dodge | Dodge |
| Model | Aspen | Dakota |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3687 cc | 3701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 211 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 319 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1691 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 5560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 3340 mm |
